"You should have taken responsibility for sending them off."

The Chinese national football team, led by coach Ivan Brankovic, lost 0-2 to Australia on the 25th (Korea time) at the Hangzhou Sports Park Stadium in Hangzhou, China, during the 8th match of Group C in the third round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup.

The defeat on this day caused China to fail to bounce back. Even amidst the enthusiastic support of 80,000 home fans, China showed signs of being outmatched by Australia. Australia dominated the game from the early stages, controlling possession of the ball.

In the seven matches played so far, China achieved victories against Indonesia at home and Bahrain in away matches, but lost the rest. China faced off against Australia with the striking duo of Zhang Yuning and Wei Shihao. In the midfield were Xu Haoyang, Huang Zhengwei, Xie Wenning, and Chao Yongjing, while the back four consisted of Li Leiy, Zhang Shenglong, Han Fengfei, and Yang Zhiqiang. The goalkeeper was Wang Dalei.

Despite the overwhelming support from home fans, China allowed the first goal. In the 16th minute of the first half, a clearance failure by the Chinese defense led to a left-footed shot by Ervin for a goal, putting Australia ahead 1-0.

Successful in taking the initiative, Australia also benefited from luck. In the 29th minute of the first half, Australia's Belupilai fired a right-footed shot directly towards the goal, but Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei cracked.

As the first half concluded, China failed to register a single shot on goal. In contrast, Australia showcased a high conversion rate, scoring with both of their two shots on target.

China prepared for a turnaround through player substitutions. However, the Australian defense was solid. Despite bringing in naturalized players, China fiercely contested against Australia. However, China finished the game without scoring a consolation goal, failing to add points.

Sohu Sports rated goalkeeper Wang Dalei 5.3 points after the match. They noted, "Wang Dalei showed good form in the previous match. However, on this day, he was slippery like butter. He even forgot to wear the captain's armband in the second half."

After the match, Wang Dalei said, "It’s my mistake. I have nothing to say. My view was obstructed. The ball bounced, and I reacted unconsciously. I couldn’t maintain my concentration," while forcing a smile. However, his wavering demeanor and seemingly playful attitude angered the Chinese public.

Sohudotcom reported, "He looked as if he had no shame. It seemed he showed no regret or reflection regarding his mistakes. There was a lack of remorse in his appearance."

Meanwhile, in a match held after the game against Australia, Indonesia defeated Bahrain 1-0, maintaining 4th place. As a result, China now competes with Bahrain for the lowest position, unable to escape last place due to goal difference even with equal points.

Criticism of coach Branko Ivanovic of the Chinese national team is intensifying. China's 'Zibo Dotcom' claimed, "It seems nearly impossible for Ivanovic to save Chinese football. He is in his 70s, and his rigid thinking and behavior prevent any innovation in Chinese football."

Zibo Dotcom lamented, "The Chinese national football team used a 4-4-2 formation, which is due to Ivanovic's rigid tactics. It does not align with global trends. While I understand that the Chinese coaching staff is at fault, it seems no foreign coach can save Chinese football. It was simply impossible to progress to the North and Central America World Cup from the beginning."

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